Best Bet: Houby Days

Mighty morel mushrooms aren't the only stars of this weekend festival. Music, royalty, carnival, a parade, puppets, dancers, street vendors, food and more join the elusive delicacy in the spotlight. The 41st annual celebration takes over Czech Village, with vendors stretching across the Bridge of Lions, from 16th Avenue SE to C Street SW. Festivities get underway Friday night and continue through Sunday. Highlights include a parade from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, houby contests, maypole dancing, and the crowning of the Cedar Rapids Czech Prince and Princess.

Houby Days

5 to 10 p.m. Friday (5/18), 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday (5/19), 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday (5/20), Czech Village, 16th Avenue SW, Cedar Rapids; free admission; Czechvillagecedarrapids.com/